Multi-system air conditioning, control methods, defrosting control methods and dehumidification control methods

Abstract

This application relates to a multi-system air conditioner, a control method, a defrosting control method, and a dehumidification control method. The multi-system air conditioner includes a controller, an indoor unit system, and at least two outdoor unit systems. Each indoor unit system includes an indoor fan and at least two evaporators, with the indoor fan and the at least two evaporators arranged opposite each other. An airflow regulating device is also provided on the side of each evaporator closest to the indoor fan, and the airflow regulating device is electrically connected to the controller. Each outdoor unit system includes a compressor, a gas-liquid separator, a four-way valve, a condenser, and a throttling component. The compressor, the gas-liquid separator, the four-way valve, the condenser, the throttling component, and the evaporators are connected via a circulation pipeline. According to the multi-system air conditioner of this invention, by adjusting at least two airflow regulating devices, a stable outlet air temperature can be achieved, enabling functions such as heating dehumidification, constant temperature dehumidification, and cooling dehumidification, thereby improving comfort.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of air conditioning technology, and in particular to a multi-system air conditioner, a control method, a defrosting control method, and a dehumidification control method. Background Technology

[0002] Integrated rooftop units are widely used in engineering projects due to their ease of installation. However, traditional integrated rooftop units can only meet basic cooling and heating needs, and are difficult to meet comfort requirements.

[0003] For large rooftop air conditioning units, dual, triple, or more systems are typically used—that is, dual outdoor unit systems, three outdoor unit systems, or more outdoor unit systems—to achieve greater cooling capacity. However, multi-system operation inevitably presents some special operating conditions. For example, when the demand for cooling or heating changes, traditional air conditioners can only adjust the cooling or heating capacity by shutting down one of the systems. This method results in a large adjustment range, significant fluctuations in outlet air temperature, and poor comfort. For instance, during defrosting, traditional air conditioners will shut down the indoor fan, leading to poor heating comfort. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this invention proposes a multi-system air conditioner that, by adjusting at least two airflow regulating devices, can achieve stable outlet air temperature and realize functions such as heating dehumidification, constant temperature dehumidification, and cooling dehumidification, thereby improving comfort.

[0005] In a first aspect, this application proposes a multi-system air conditioner, including a controller, an indoor unit system, and at least two outdoor unit systems. The indoor unit system includes an indoor fan and at least two evaporators, with the indoor fan and the at least two evaporators arranged opposite to each other. The side of the evaporator closest to the indoor fan is also provided with an airflow regulating device, which is electrically connected to the controller. The outdoor unit system includes a compressor, a gas-liquid separator, a four-way valve, a condenser, and a throttling component. The compressor, the gas-liquid separator, the four-way valve, the condenser, the throttling component, and the evaporator are connected through a circulation pipeline.

[0006] According to the multi-system air conditioner of the present invention, the air volume regulating device is configured as an electric air valve, and the four-way valve includes a first port, a second port, a third port and a fourth port. The first port is connected to the condenser, the second port is connected to the compressor, the third port is connected to the evaporator and the fourth port is connected to the gas-liquid separator.

[0007] According to the multi-system air conditioner of the present invention, the indoor unit system and the outdoor unit system are of a split structure. The indoor unit system includes a first ambient temperature sensor and an outlet air temperature sensor, and the outdoor unit system includes a second ambient temperature sensor. The first ambient temperature sensor, the outlet air temperature sensor, and the second ambient temperature sensor are all electrically connected to the control unit.

[0008] Secondly, this application proposes a control method for controlling the aforementioned multi-system air conditioning, comprising:

[0009] Receive the first set temperature;

[0010] Detect the first air outlet temperature;

[0011] Compare the first outlet air temperature with the first set temperature, and output the comparison result;

[0012] Based on the comparison results, each of the air volume regulating devices is controlled to synchronously change its air volume.

[0013] Optionally, after controlling each of the air volume regulating devices to synchronously change the air volume according to the comparison result, the method further includes:

[0014] Detect the temperature of the second air outlet;

[0015] When the air volume of the air volume regulating device has been adjusted to the maximum, if the second air outlet temperature is still lower than the first set temperature during cooling and higher than the first set temperature during heating, control one outdoor unit system to stop operating.

[0016] Detect the temperature of the third air outlet;

[0017] Based on the difference between the third outlet air temperature and the first set temperature, the air volume regulating devices corresponding to the other outdoor unit systems are controlled to gradually reduce the air volume so that the third outlet air temperature reaches the first set temperature.

[0018] Optionally, the control method further includes:

[0019] When the outdoor unit system is shut down, the airflow regulating device corresponding to the outdoor unit system is controlled to reduce the airflow to the first airflow rate.

[0020] When the airflow regulating devices corresponding to the remaining outdoor unit systems have been adjusted to the minimum airflow, and the third air outlet temperature still fails to reach the first set temperature,

[0021] Then the air volume regulating device corresponding to the outdoor unit system that has been shut down will increase the first air volume.

[0022] Optionally, the air volume regulating device increases from the first air volume, specifically including:

[0023] The first air volume is increased by adjusting the first preset air volume increase. Each time the air volume of the air volume regulating device increases, the third air temperature is detected until the third air temperature reaches the first preset temperature.

[0024] Thirdly, this application proposes a defrosting control method for controlling the aforementioned multi-system air conditioning, including:

[0025] When the multi-system air conditioner is in heating mode, the outlet air temperature is maintained at the second set temperature. When an outdoor unit system needs to defrost, the first and second ports of the four-way valve of that outdoor unit system are opened, the third and fourth ports are opened, and the corresponding airflow regulating device of that outdoor unit system is closed.

[0026] The second and third ports of the four-way valve of the remaining outdoor unit system are opened, and the first and fourth ports are opened, thereby controlling the air volume regulating device corresponding to the outdoor unit system to reduce the air volume.

[0027] Optionally, the control of the air volume regulating device corresponding to the outdoor unit system to reduce the air volume specifically includes:

[0028] The air volume is reduced by adjusting the air volume reduction by the second preset air volume reduction. Each time the air volume of the air volume regulating device is reduced, the air temperature is detected until the air temperature reaches the second preset temperature.

[0029] Fourthly, this application proposes a dehumidification control method for controlling the aforementioned multi-system air conditioning, including:

[0030] Receive the dehumidification set temperature;

[0031] The first and second ports of the four-way valve controlling one outdoor unit system are open, and the third and fourth ports are open. The second and third ports of the four-way valve controlling the other outdoor unit systems are open, and the first and fourth ports are open.

[0032] Detect the outlet air temperature;

[0033] Adjust the airflow regulating devices corresponding to the two outdoor unit systems to make the outlet air temperature reach the dehumidification set temperature.

[0034] The technical solutions provided in this application have the following advantages compared with the prior art:

[0035] The multi-system air conditioner of this application has an air volume regulating device between the evaporator and the indoor fan. Different air volume regulating devices can be adjusted to change the amount of air passing through the corresponding evaporator, thereby achieving flexible control. It can achieve stable outlet air temperature and realize multiple functions such as heating dehumidification, constant temperature dehumidification, and cooling dehumidification, thus improving comfort. Attached Figure Description

[0036] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0037] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, for those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0038] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of component connections for a multi-system air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an air volume regulating device for a multi-system air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of component connections when a multi-system air conditioner is in defrosting mode according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the air volume regulating device for a multi-system air conditioner in defrosting mode according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of component connections when a multi-system air conditioner is in dehumidification mode according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the air volume regulating device when a multi-system air conditioner is in dehumidification mode according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the steps of a multi-system air conditioner control method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of another step in the control method of a multi-system air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the steps of a dehumidification control method for a multi-system air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure label:

[0048] Outdoor unit system 1, first outdoor unit system 1A, first outdoor fan 101, second outdoor unit system 1B, second outdoor fan 102, indoor unit system 2, indoor fan 10, evaporator 20, air volume regulating device 30, first air volume regulating device 31, second air volume regulating device 32, compressor 40, gas-liquid separator 50, four-way valve 60, condenser 70, throttling component 80, first ambient temperature sensor 91, second ambient temperature sensor 92, outlet air temperature sensor 93, first evaporator temperature detection sensor 94, second evaporator temperature detection sensor 95. Detailed Implementation

[0049] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0050] The following disclosure provides numerous different embodiments or examples for implementing various structures of the invention. To simplify the disclosure, specific examples of components and arrangements are described below. These are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Furthermore, reference numerals and / or letters may be repeated in different examples. Such repetition is for simplification and clarity and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or arrangements discussed.

[0051] For ease of description, spatial relative terms may be used in the text to describe the relative position or movement of one element or feature relative to another element or feature, as shown in the figure. These relative terms include, for example, "inside," "outside," "middle," "outer," "below," "below," "above," "front," "back," etc. Such spatial relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation, other than those depicted in the figure. For example, if the device in the figure undergoes a positional flip, orientation change, or change of motion, these directional indications will change accordingly. For instance, an element described as "below other elements or features" or "below other elements or features" will subsequently be oriented "above other elements or features" or "above other elements or features." Therefore, the example term "below" can include both upper and lower orientations. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or in other directions), and the spatial relative descriptors used in the text will be interpreted accordingly.

[0052] like Figure 1and Figure 2 As shown, a multi-system air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a controller, an indoor unit system 2, and at least two outdoor unit systems 1. The indoor unit system 2 includes an indoor fan 10 and at least two evaporators 20. The indoor fan 10 and the at least two evaporators 20 are arranged opposite to each other. An air volume regulating device 30 is also provided on the side of the evaporator 20 near the indoor fan 10. The air volume regulating device 30 is electrically connected to the controller. The outdoor unit system 1 includes a compressor 40, a gas-liquid separator 50, a four-way valve 60, a condenser 70, and a throttling component 80. The compressor 40, the gas-liquid separator 50, the four-way valve 60, the condenser 70, the throttling component 80, and the evaporator 20 are connected through a circulation pipeline.

[0053] In detail, the air volume regulating device 30 is electrically connected to the controller. When the multi-system air conditioner performs functions such as heating and dehumidifying, constant temperature dehumidifying, and cooling and dehumidifying, the controller can adjust each air volume regulating device 30 accordingly, thereby changing the air volume output to the evaporator 20, thereby changing the air outlet temperature, making it easier to maintain the air outlet temperature at a constant temperature, and improving the user comfort of the multi-system air conditioner.

[0054] The evaporator 20 and the indoor fan 10 include one or more air volume regulating devices 30. When multiple air volume regulating devices 30 are included, the multiple air volume regulating devices 30 are arranged side by side along the length of the evaporator 20. In some embodiments, the outdoor unit system 1, the evaporator 20 and the air volume regulating devices 30 correspond one-to-one.

[0055] For example, in a specific embodiment, the multi-system air conditioner includes two outdoor unit systems 1, two evaporators 20, and two air volume regulating devices 30. For ease of explanation, the two outdoor unit systems 1 are defined as the first outdoor unit system 1A and the second outdoor unit system 1B, the two evaporators 20 are defined as the first evaporator 20 and the second evaporator 20, and the two air volume regulating devices 30 are defined as the first air volume regulating device 31 and the second air volume regulating device 32. The first outdoor unit system 1A, the first evaporator 20, and the first air volume regulating device 31 correspond one-to-one, and the second outdoor unit system 1B, the second evaporator 20, and the second air volume regulating device 32 correspond one-to-one. The first outdoor fan system 1A is provided with a first outdoor fan 101, and the second outdoor fan system 1 is provided with a second outdoor fan 102.

[0056] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a multi-system air conditioner is provided between the evaporator 20 and the indoor fan 10. Different air volume regulating devices 30 can be adjusted to change the amount of airflow passing through the corresponding evaporator 20, thereby achieving flexible control. This can achieve stable outlet air temperature and realize multiple functions such as heating dehumidification, constant temperature dehumidification, and cooling dehumidification, thereby improving comfort.

[0057] like Figure 1As shown, in some embodiments, the indoor unit system 2 is equipped with a first ambient temperature sensor 91 and an outlet air temperature sensor 93, which are electrically connected to the controller. The first ambient temperature sensor 91 is used to sense the indoor ambient temperature, and the outlet air temperature sensor 93 is used to sense the outlet air temperature.

[0058] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, the outdoor unit system 1 is provided with a second ambient temperature sensor 92, which is electrically connected to the controller. The second ambient temperature sensor 92 is used to sense the outdoor ambient temperature.

[0059] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, a first evaporator temperature detection sensor 94 is provided on the evaporator 20 corresponding to one outdoor unit system 1 for detecting temperature, and a second evaporator temperature detection sensor 95 is provided on the evaporator 20 corresponding to the other outdoor unit systems 1 for detecting temperature.

[0060] like Figure 1 , Figure 3 as well as Figure 5 As shown, in a multi-system air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention, the air volume regulating device 30 is configured as an electric air valve, and the four-way valve 60 includes a first port C, a second port D, a third port E and a fourth port S. The first port is connected to the condenser 70, the second port is connected to the compressor 40, the third port is connected to the evaporator 20 and the fourth port is connected to the gas-liquid separator 50.

[0061] In this way, by controlling the electric air valve through the controller, the air volume can be automatically controlled and adjusted, thereby changing the outlet air temperature. When a multi-system air conditioner is performing various functions, it can adaptively adjust the air volume to maintain a constant temperature and improve comfort.

[0062] For example, the air volume regulating device 30 has three settings: high, medium, and low. In normal cooling, heating, or air supply mode, at the high setting, the angle of the electric air valve is set to 90°. At this time, the electric air valve is fully open, the resistance is minimal, and the air volume through the evaporator 20 is maximum. At the medium and low settings, the angle of the electric air valve is reduced. The relationship between the air volume ratio and the angle is related to the multi-system air conditioning structure design and the size of the electric air valve. The parameters in the table below are for illustrative purposes only (the first air volume regulating device 31 includes electric air valve 1, and the second air volume regulating device 32 includes electric air valve 2. The labels for electric air valve 1 and electric air valve 2 are only for differentiation).

[0063]

[0064] The four-way valve 60 includes a first port C, a second port D, a third port E, and a fourth port S. The first port is connected to the condenser 70, the second port is connected to the compressor 40, the third port is connected to the evaporator 20, and the fourth port is connected to the gas-liquid separator 50. When the multi-system air conditioner is in heating mode, the second port D and the third port E are connected, and the fourth port S and the first port C are connected. When the multi-system air conditioner is in cooling mode, the first port C and the second port D are connected, and the third port E and the fourth port S are connected.

[0065] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the indoor unit system 2 and the outdoor unit system 1 are of a split structure. The outdoor unit system 1 is installed outdoors, and the indoor unit system 2 is installed indoors. The indoor unit system 2 and the outdoor unit system 1 are connected by pipes.

[0066] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 as well as Figure 7 As shown, the control method according to an embodiment of the present invention is used to control the above-mentioned multi-system air conditioner, including:

[0067] Step 10: Detect the temperature of the first air outlet;

[0068] Step S20: Compare the first outlet air temperature with the first set temperature and output the comparison result;

[0069] Step S30: Based on the comparison results, control each air volume regulating device 30 to synchronously change the air volume.

[0070] When the multi-system air conditioner is cooling, the first port C and the second port D of the four-way valve 60 are connected, and the third port E and the fourth port S are connected. In step S10, the multi-system air conditioner receives the first set temperature set by the user, controls both compressors 40 to be turned on, and controls the two air volume regulating devices 30 to be turned on at a ratio of A%. At this time, the outlet air temperature is T0.

[0071] In step S10, the first air outlet temperature can be detected by the air outlet temperature sensor 93, thereby detecting the air outlet temperature of the indoor unit system 2. Preferably, the first air outlet temperature is detected in real time by the air outlet temperature sensor 93.

[0072] In step S20, the first air outlet temperature and the first set temperature are compared, and the comparison result is output. For example, if the first air outlet temperature remains constant and consistent with the first set temperature, it indicates that the cooling capacity of the multi-system air conditioner remains constant. Or if the first air outlet temperature is lower than the first set temperature, it indicates that the cooling capacity of the multi-system air conditioner has increased (e.g., the outdoor ambient temperature has decreased). Or if the first air outlet temperature is higher than the first set temperature, it indicates that the cooling capacity of the multi-system air conditioner has decreased (e.g., the outdoor ambient temperature has increased).

[0073] In step S30, when the first air outlet temperature shows an upward trend, it indicates that the cooling capacity of the multi-system air conditioner is decreasing (for example, the outdoor ambient temperature is rising). At this time, the controller controls the air volume regulating device 30 to reduce the air volume. As the air volume decreases, the air volume blown towards the evaporator 20 decreases, which leads to a decrease in the first air outlet temperature, and finally achieves a constant air outlet temperature for the indoor unit system 2.

[0074] When the first air outlet temperature shows a decreasing trend, it indicates that the cooling capacity of the multi-system air conditioner has increased (for example, the outdoor ambient temperature has decreased). At this time, the controller controls the air volume adjustment device 30 to increase the air volume. As the air volume increases, the air volume blown towards the evaporator 20 increases, which leads to an increase in the first air outlet temperature, and finally achieves a constant air outlet temperature for the indoor unit system 2.

[0075] When the multi-system air conditioner is heating, the second port D and the third port E of the four-way valve 60 are connected, and the fourth port S and the first port C are connected. In step S10, the multi-system air conditioner receives the first set temperature set by the user, controls both compressors 40 to be turned on, and controls the two air volume regulating devices 30 to be turned on at a ratio of B%. At this time, the outlet air temperature is T0.

[0076] In step S10, the first air outlet temperature can be detected by the air outlet temperature sensor 93, thereby detecting the air outlet temperature of the indoor unit system 2.

[0077] In step S20, the first air outlet temperature and the first set temperature are compared, and the comparison result is output. For example, if the first air outlet temperature remains constant and consistent with the first set temperature, it indicates that the heating capacity of the multi-system air conditioner remains constant. Or if the first air outlet temperature is lower than the first set temperature, it indicates that the heating capacity of the multi-system air conditioner has decreased (e.g., the outdoor ambient temperature has decreased). Or if the first air outlet temperature is higher than the first set temperature, it indicates that the heating capacity of the multi-system air conditioner has increased (e.g., the outdoor ambient temperature has increased).

[0078] In step S30, when the first air outlet temperature shows an upward trend, it indicates that the heating capacity of the multi-system air conditioner is increasing (e.g., the outdoor ambient temperature is rising). At this time, the controller controls the air volume regulating device 30 to increase the air volume. As the air volume increases, the air volume blown towards the evaporator 20 increases, which causes the first air outlet temperature to decrease, and finally achieves a constant air outlet temperature for the indoor unit system 2.

[0079] When the first air outlet temperature shows a decreasing trend, it indicates that the heating capacity of the multi-system air conditioner is decreasing (for example, the outdoor ambient temperature is decreasing). At this time, the controller controls the air volume adjustment device 30 to reduce the air volume. As the air volume decreases, the air volume blown towards the evaporator 20 decreases, which causes the first air outlet temperature to rise, and finally achieves a constant air outlet temperature for the indoor unit system 2.

[0080] It should be noted that in step S30, controlling each air volume regulating device 30 to synchronously change the air volume according to the comparison result can be done by adjusting the air volume control device according to the difference between the first air outlet temperature and the first set temperature, with the air volume increase or decrease corresponding to the difference; or it can be done by adjusting the air volume control device with a preset air volume increase or decrease, and then detecting the first air outlet temperature again within a preset time interval. If the first air outlet temperature does not reach the first set temperature, the air volume is adjusted again with the preset air volume increase or decrease.

[0081] like Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, after step S30, the following steps are further included:

[0082] Step S50: Detect the temperature of the second air outlet;

[0083] Step S60: When the air volume of the air volume regulating device 30 has been adjusted to the maximum, if the second air outlet temperature is still lower than the first set temperature during cooling and higher than the first set temperature during heating, control one outdoor unit system 1 to stop operating.

[0084] Step S70: Detect the temperature of the third air outlet;

[0085] Step S80: Based on the difference between the third outlet air temperature and the first set temperature, control the air volume regulating device 30 corresponding to the other outdoor unit system 1 to gradually reduce the air volume so that the third outlet air temperature reaches the first set temperature.

[0086] When the multi-system air conditioner is cooling, after the adjustment in step S40, the second outlet air temperature is detected by the outlet air temperature sensor 93 in step S50.

[0087] In step S60, when the air volume of the air volume regulating device 30 has been adjusted to the maximum, the second air temperature detected by the air temperature sensor 93 is still lower than the first set temperature. The first outdoor unit system 1A is turned off (or the second outdoor unit system 1B is turned off). Since the cooling output is halved when one cooling outdoor unit system 1 is turned off, the air temperature will increase significantly when the indoor air volume remains unchanged.

[0088] In step S70, the third outlet air temperature is detected by outlet air temperature sensor 93.

[0089] In step S80, based on the difference between the third outlet air temperature and the first set temperature, the air volume of the corresponding air volume regulating device 30 of the second outdoor unit system 1B is controlled to gradually decrease, thereby increasing the outlet air temperature so that the third outlet air temperature reaches the first set temperature.

[0090] When the multi-system air conditioner is heating, after the adjustment in step S30, in step S50, the second outlet air temperature is detected by the outlet air temperature sensor 93. Preferably, the second outlet air temperature is detected in real time by the outlet air temperature sensor 93.

[0091] In step S60, when the air volume of the air volume regulating device 30 has been adjusted to the maximum, the second air temperature detected by the air temperature sensor 93 is still higher than the first set temperature. The first outdoor unit system 1A is turned off (or the second outdoor unit system 1B is turned off). Since the heat output is halved when one of the heating outdoor unit systems 1 is turned off, the air temperature will decrease significantly when the indoor air circulation volume remains unchanged.

[0092] In step S70, the third outlet air temperature is detected by the outlet air temperature sensor 93. Preferably, the third outlet air temperature is detected in real time by the outlet air temperature sensor 93.

[0093] In step S80, based on the difference between the third outlet air temperature and the first set temperature, the air volume of the corresponding air volume regulating device 30 of the second outdoor unit system 1B is controlled to gradually decrease, thereby reducing the outlet air temperature and making the third outlet air temperature reach the first set temperature.

[0094] It should be noted that the first air outlet temperature, the second air outlet temperature, and the third air outlet temperature are all air outlet temperatures of the indoor unit system 2, distinguished by "first", "second", and "third".

[0095] In some embodiments, the control method further includes:

[0096] Step S90: When shutting down the outdoor unit system 1, control the airflow regulating device 30 corresponding to the outdoor unit system 1 to reduce it to the first airflow rate.

[0097] Step S100: When the airflow regulating device 30 corresponding to the other outdoor unit system 1 has been adjusted to the minimum airflow, and the third air outlet temperature still fails to reach the first set temperature,

[0098] Then the air volume regulating device 30 corresponding to the outdoor unit system 1 that has been shut down will increase from the first air volume.

[0099] In other words, step S90 is a specific embodiment of step S60. When the outdoor unit system 1 is shut down, such as when the first outdoor unit system 1A is shut down, the air volume regulating device 30 corresponding to the first outdoor unit system 1A is controlled to be reduced to the first air volume.

[0100] When the multi-system air conditioner is cooling, in step S100, if the air volume regulating device 30 corresponding to the other outdoor unit system 1 (for example, the second outdoor unit system 1B that is still running) has been adjusted to the minimum air volume and the third air outlet temperature is still lower than the first set temperature, then the air volume regulating device 30 corresponding to the outdoor unit system 1 that has been shut down is controlled to increase from the first air volume. Since the air volume passing through the evaporator 20 of the first outdoor unit system 1A is uncooled return air, the proportion of high temperature return air is increased, and the overall mixed air outlet temperature is gradually increased.

[0101] Understandably, the air volume of the air volume regulating device 30 corresponding to the second outdoor unit system 1B can be gradually reduced, while the air volume of the air volume regulating device 30 corresponding to the first outdoor unit system 1A can be increased, so as to achieve the regulation of the air outlet temperature.

[0102] In one specific embodiment, the first air volume is 50% of the opening angle of the air volume regulating device 30, and the minimum air volume of the second outdoor unit system 1B is 70% of the opening angle of the air volume regulating device 30.

[0103] When the multi-system air conditioner is heating, in step S100, if the air volume regulating device 30 corresponding to the other outdoor unit system 1 (for example, the second outdoor unit system 1B that is still running) has been adjusted to the minimum air volume and the third air outlet temperature is still higher than the first set temperature, then the air volume regulating device 30 corresponding to the outdoor unit system 1 that has been shut down is controlled to increase from the first air volume. Since the air volume passing through the evaporator 20 of the first outdoor unit system 1A is unheated return air, the proportion of low-temperature return air is increased, and the overall mixed air outlet temperature is gradually reduced.

[0104] Understandably, the air volume of the air volume regulating device 30 corresponding to the second outdoor unit system 1B can be gradually reduced, while the air volume of the air volume regulating device 30 corresponding to the first outdoor unit system 1A can be increased, so as to achieve the regulation of the air outlet temperature.

[0105] In one specific embodiment, the first air volume is 50% of the opening angle of the air volume regulating device 30, and the minimum air volume of the second outdoor unit system 1B is 70% of the opening angle of the air volume regulating device 30.

[0106] It should be noted that the minimum air volume can be set as needed, for example, to the low fan speed shown in the table above. This minimum air volume is not necessarily smaller than the first air volume.

[0107] In some embodiments, the air volume regulating device 30 is increased by the first air volume, specifically including:

[0108] Step S102: Adjust the first air volume to increase by the first preset air volume increase. Each time the air volume of the air volume regulating device 30 increases, detect the third air volume temperature until the third air volume temperature reaches the first set temperature.

[0109] In step S102, the air volume regulating device 30 corresponding to the first outdoor unit system 1A is controlled to gradually increase the first air volume by a first preset air volume increase. Each time the air volume of the air volume regulating device 30 increases, the third air volume temperature is detected by the air volume temperature sensor 93. If the third air volume temperature is found to be still below the first set temperature, the air volume regulating device 30 is controlled to increase the air volume by the first preset air volume increase again, and the third air volume temperature is detected by the air volume temperature sensor 93. This cycle is repeated until the third air volume temperature reaches the first set temperature.

[0110] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the defrosting control method according to the present invention, used to control the above-mentioned multi-system air conditioner, includes:

[0111] Step S10: When the multi-system air conditioner is in heating mode, the outlet air temperature is maintained at the second set temperature. When an outdoor unit system 1 needs to defrost, the first port C and the second port D of the four-way valve 60 of the outdoor unit system 1 are opened, the third port E and the fourth port S are opened, and the corresponding air volume regulating device 30 of the outdoor unit system 1 is closed.

[0112] The second port D and the third port E of the four-way valve 60 of the remaining outdoor unit system 1 are opened, and the first port C and the fourth port S are opened, thereby controlling the air volume regulating device 30 corresponding to the outdoor unit system 1 to reduce the air volume.

[0113] In step S10, when the multi-system air conditioner is in heating mode and the outlet air temperature is maintained at the second set temperature, if the multi-system air conditioner receives a defrosting instruction from the outdoor unit system 1 (this instruction is generally issued by the controller, but can also be an instruction issued by the user to the controller), for example, when the first outdoor unit system 1A needs to defrost, the first port C and the second port D of the four-way valve 60 of the outdoor unit system 1 (i.e., the first outdoor unit system 1A) are opened, the third port E and the fourth port S are opened, and the corresponding air volume regulating device 30 of the outdoor unit system 1 is closed, switching the first outdoor unit system 1A from the previous heating state to the cooling state. The corresponding air volume regulating device 30 of the first outdoor unit system 1A is closed, and the indoor fan 10 is in the running state. The second port D and the third port E of the four-way valve 60 of the other outdoor unit system 1 (i.e., the second outdoor unit system 1B) are opened, and the first port C and the fourth port S are opened, so that it still maintains the heating state. The corresponding air volume regulating device 30 of the second outdoor unit system 1B is still in the open state.

[0114] During the defrosting process, the air volume regulating device 30 corresponding to the first outdoor unit system 1A is in the closed state, and no air volume passes through the evaporator 20 corresponding to the first outdoor unit system 1A. Meanwhile, the second outdoor unit system 1B is heating normally. At this time, the multi-system air conditioner can still provide half of the heating capacity before defrosting. At this time, the air volume regulating device 30 corresponding to the outdoor unit system 1 (i.e. the second outdoor unit system 1B) is controlled to reduce the air volume. This can reduce the overall air volume, increase the air outlet temperature, and achieve a constant air outlet temperature.

[0115] Similarly, when the second outdoor unit system 1B needs to defrost, the first port C and the second port D of the four-way valve 60 controlling the second outdoor unit system 1 (i.e., the second outdoor unit system 1B) are opened, the third port E and the fourth port S are opened, and the corresponding air volume regulating device 30 of the outdoor unit system 1 is closed, switching the second outdoor unit system 1B from the previous heating state to the cooling state. The corresponding air volume regulating device 30 of the second outdoor unit system 1B is closed, and the indoor fan 10 is in the running state. The second port D and the third port E of the four-way valve 60 controlling the other outdoor unit system 1 (i.e., the first outdoor unit system 1A) are opened, and the first port C and the fourth port S are opened, so that it still maintains the heating state. The corresponding air volume regulating device 30 of the first outdoor unit system 1A is still in the open state.

[0116] During the defrosting process, the air volume regulating device 30 corresponding to the second outdoor unit system 1B is in the closed state, and no air volume passes through the evaporator 20 corresponding to the second outdoor unit system 1B. Meanwhile, the first outdoor unit system 1A is heating normally. At this time, the multi-system air conditioner can still provide half of the heating capacity before defrosting. At this time, the air volume regulating device 30 corresponding to the outdoor unit system 1 (i.e., the first outdoor unit system 1A) is controlled to reduce the air volume. This can reduce the overall air volume, increase the air outlet temperature, and achieve a constant air outlet temperature.

[0117] In some embodiments, controlling the air volume regulating device 30 corresponding to the outdoor unit system 1 to reduce the air volume specifically includes:

[0118] Step S20: Adjust the air volume to decrease by the second preset air volume reduction. Each time the air volume of the air volume regulating device 30 decreases, detect the air temperature until the air temperature reaches the second set temperature.

[0119] In step S20, the air volume regulating device 30 corresponding to the outdoor unit system 1 in operation is controlled to adjust the air volume to decrease by the second preset air volume reduction. Each time the air volume of the air volume regulating device 30 decreases, the air volume temperature is detected by the air volume temperature sensor 93. If the air volume temperature still does not reach the second set temperature, the air volume regulating device 30 is controlled to adjust the air volume again by the second preset air volume reduction to decrease the air volume. The air volume temperature is detected by the air volume temperature sensor 93 until the air volume temperature reaches the second set temperature.

[0120] like Figure 5 , Figure 6 as well as Figure 9 As shown, the dehumidification control method according to an embodiment of the present invention is used to control the above-mentioned multi-system air conditioner, including:

[0121] Step S10: Receive the dehumidification set temperature;

[0122] Step S20: Control the first port C and the second port D of the four-way valve 60 of one outdoor unit system 1 to be open, the third port E and the fourth port S to be open, and control the second port D and the third port E of the four-way valve 60 of the remaining outdoor unit systems 1 to be open, the first port C and the fourth port S to be open.

[0123] Step S30: Detect the outlet air temperature;

[0124] Step S40: Adjust the air volume regulating device 30 corresponding to the two outdoor unit systems 1 so that the outlet air temperature reaches the dehumidification set temperature.

[0125] In step S10, the multi-system air conditioner can be either receiving a dehumidification setting temperature from the controller or receiving a dehumidification setting temperature from the user.

[0126] In step S20, the first port C and the second port D of the four-way valve 60 of one outdoor unit system 1 are turned on, and the third port E and the fourth port S are turned on to put it into a cooling state. The second port D and the third port E of the four-way valve 60 of the remaining outdoor unit systems 1 are turned on, and the first port C and the fourth port S are turned on to put it into a heating state.

[0127] In step S30, the outlet air temperature is detected by the outlet air temperature sensor 93.

[0128] In step S40, based on the outlet air temperature and the dehumidification set temperature, the air volume passing through the evaporator 20 corresponding to the first outdoor unit system 1A and the evaporator 20 corresponding to the second outdoor unit system 1B is controlled, that is, the ratio of cold air to hot air is adjusted, so that the outlet air temperature reaches the dehumidification set temperature, and the multi-system air conditioner achieves a constant outlet air temperature during the whole-unit dehumidification process.

[0129] In the description of this invention, it should also be understood that features specified as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of those features. In the description of this invention, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0130] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0131] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

Claims

1. A multi-system air conditioner, characterized in that, The system includes a controller, an indoor unit system, and at least two outdoor unit systems. The indoor unit system includes an indoor fan and at least two evaporators. The indoor fan and the at least two evaporators are arranged opposite each other. On the side of each evaporator closest to the indoor fan, there are at least two airflow regulating devices corresponding to each evaporator. The at least two airflow regulating devices are arranged side by side along the length of the evaporator. The airflow regulating devices are electrically connected to the controller and are used to change the amount of airflow passing through the corresponding evaporator. The outdoor unit system includes a compressor, a gas-liquid separator, a four-way valve, a condenser, and a throttling device. The compressor, the gas-liquid separator, the four-way valve, the condenser, the throttling device, and the evaporator are connected through a circulation pipeline. When the multi-system air conditioner is in heating mode, the outlet air temperature is maintained at the second set temperature. When an outdoor unit system needs to defrost, the first and second ports of the four-way valve of the outdoor unit system that needs to defrost are opened, the third and fourth ports are opened, and the air volume regulating device corresponding to the outdoor unit system that needs to defrost is closed. The second and third ports of the four-way valve of the remaining outdoor unit systems are opened, the first and fourth ports are opened, and the air volume regulating device corresponding to the remaining outdoor unit systems is controlled to reduce the outlet air volume. The air volume regulating device is configured as an electric air valve. The four-way valve includes a first port, a second port, a third port, and a fourth port. The first port is connected to the condenser, the second port is connected to the compressor, the third port is connected to the evaporator, and the fourth port is connected to the gas-liquid separator.

2. The multi-system air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The indoor unit system and the outdoor unit system are separate structures. The indoor unit system includes a first ambient temperature sensor and an outlet air temperature sensor, and the outdoor unit system includes a second ambient temperature sensor. The first ambient temperature sensor, the outlet air temperature sensor, and the second ambient temperature sensor are all electrically connected to the controller.

3. A control method, characterized in that, For controlling a multi-system air conditioner as described in any one of claims 1-2, comprising: Detect the first air outlet temperature; Compare the first outlet air temperature with the first set temperature, and output the comparison result; Based on the comparison results, control each of the air volume regulating devices to synchronously change the air output volume; When the multi-system air conditioner is cooling, if the first outlet air temperature is lower than the first set temperature, it controls the air volume regulating device to increase the outlet air volume.

4. The control method according to claim 3, characterized in that, After controlling each of the air volume regulating devices to synchronously change the air volume according to the comparison result, the method further includes: Detect the temperature of the second air outlet; When the air volume of the air volume regulating device has been adjusted to the maximum, if the second air outlet temperature is still lower than the first set temperature during cooling and higher than the first set temperature during heating, control one outdoor unit system to stop operating. Detect the temperature of the third air outlet; Based on the difference between the third outlet air temperature and the first set temperature, the air volume regulating device corresponding to the other outdoor unit system is controlled to gradually reduce the air volume so that the third outlet air temperature reaches the first set temperature.

5. The control method according to claim 4, characterized in that, Also includes: When shutting down an outdoor unit system that has stopped operating, the air volume regulating device corresponding to the stopped outdoor unit system is controlled to decrease to the first air volume. If the air volume regulating devices corresponding to the other outdoor unit systems have been adjusted to the minimum air volume and the third air temperature still does not reach the first set temperature, the air volume regulating device corresponding to the shut-down outdoor unit system is controlled to increase from the first air volume.

6. The control method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The air volume regulating device increases from the first air volume, specifically including: The first air volume is increased by adjusting the first preset air volume increase. Each time the air volume of the air volume regulating device increases, the third air temperature is detected until the third air temperature reaches the first preset temperature.

7. A defrosting control method, characterized in that, For controlling a multi-system air conditioner as described in any one of claims 1-2, comprising: When the multi-system air conditioner is in heating mode, the air outlet temperature is maintained at the second set temperature. When one outdoor unit system needs to defrost, the first and second ports of the four-way valve of the outdoor unit system that needs to defrost are opened, the third and fourth ports are opened, and the air volume regulating device corresponding to the outdoor unit system that needs to defrost is closed. The second and third ports of the four-way valves of the remaining outdoor unit systems are opened, the first and fourth ports are opened, and the air volume regulating device corresponding to the remaining outdoor unit systems is controlled to reduce the air outlet volume.

8. The defrosting control method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The control of the air volume regulating device corresponding to the remaining outdoor unit system to reduce the air volume specifically includes: The air volume is reduced by adjusting the air volume reduction by the second preset air volume reduction. Each time the air volume of the air volume regulating device is reduced, the air temperature is detected until the air temperature reaches the second preset temperature.

9. A dehumidification control method, characterized in that, For controlling a multi-system air conditioner as described in any one of claims 1-2, comprising: Receive the dehumidification set temperature; The first and second ports of the four-way valve controlling one outdoor unit system are open, and the third and fourth ports are open. The second and third ports of the four-way valve controlling the other outdoor unit systems are open, and the first and fourth ports are open. Detect the outlet air temperature; The airflow regulating devices corresponding to the two outdoor unit systems are adjusted to make the outlet air temperature reach the dehumidification set temperature; the two outdoor unit systems are the first outdoor unit system and the second outdoor unit system. According to the outlet air temperature and the dehumidification set temperature, the airflow passing through the evaporator corresponding to the first outdoor unit system and the evaporator corresponding to the second outdoor unit system is controlled. By adjusting the ratio of cold air to hot air, the outlet air temperature is made to reach the dehumidification set temperature, so that the multi-system air conditioner can maintain a constant outlet air temperature during the whole-unit dehumidification process.

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